The Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and ends November 30.
EVEN PARADISE CAN HAVE A HURRICANE THREATEN IT!
The Emerald Coast is more beautiful than most can imagine… Pristine white quartz beaches, clear emerald green water and clean air and clear skies. We also live in Florida, which is known for threatening storms such as hurricanes.
Although we are fortunate to have science so advanced that it can forecast a storm or severe weather and keep us posted on the path of a storm, it is extremely necessary to take precautions. You really want to learn how to prepare for a hurricane, just in case.
I hope the following hurricane season checklist and tips will help prepare you as we go thru the next Atlantic hurricane season:
- Enter the season prepared
- Know all evacuation routes if you live close to the coast
- Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and they have hurricane shutters
- Have proper tools, supplies, and a first aid kit
- Have plenty of batteries and flashlights
- Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand
- Hurricanes are typically slow moving giving you several days to finalize your plans
- Pay attention to the Weather Channel or go to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) as they constantly update the path of the storm
- Make sure you have plenty of fuel in your vehicles
- Have several days’ supply of food and water for each family member
- If called to evacuate, do so immediately
- Be ready to put your plan and hurricane preparedness into action
- Continue to watch local weather reports on radio, television, or the internet
- Have house boarded up, or have hurricane shutters in place
- Have plenty of food and water
- Make sure all your tools, supplies, and first aid kit available for use
- Have a secure room available
- Stay in Secure Room
- Stay away from windows
- Do not use the phone, or candles
- Monitor Weather and Civil Service Bulletins on either regular or NOAA radio
- Have supplies on hand
- Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly
- Make sure that all is definitely clear outside, and the storm has completely passed before going out
- Report downed power lines, and stay away from them
- Use stored water and food
- Be patient. Things will take a while before they get back to normal
Be Safe. Be Smart. Be Prepared for the next Atlantic Hurricane Season.